Gorbals Playbarn Attacked by Vandals

The much loved Gorbals Playbarn is facing the threat of closure following repeated attacks by vandals. The centre has suffered damage to tiles on its roof which has led to major water penetration and significant flooding of the building. Heartless yobs have been climbing on to the roof and systematically breaking the tiles, which has allowed rain water to get in. Youth Work Co-ordinator Nicky Miller told the LOCAL NEWS: ‘We run on a shoe-string budget, and we manage to provide a great service to the young people in the area. However, the cost of making the building secure, fixing the roof and repairing the damage inside is huge. The total costs of repairs and security measures is well over £7,500, it’s money we just don’t have.’ Over 80 young people per week use the Playbarn. The team of seven staff develop programmes with the young people to increase their awareness of different issues. The boys group recently used their sessions to create graffiti style art on canvasses, whilst considering the difference between art and vandalism. The senior girls group held job search training sessions, and organised their own mock interviews to prepare for the world of work. The staff also encourage the youngsters to get involved in the running of the centre and to take part in the decision making process. The Playbarn runs sessions on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Nicky Miller went on to explain the ambitious plans for the centre: ‘We would like to be open every day and evening, and there are plans to turn the building into a mini sports academy. But even the day to day running of the centre is at risk because of the serious damage caused by the vandalism.’